Hemp News Today — October 31, 2026

The US cannabis industry is seeing significant developments on the regulatory front, with the DEA granting federal registration to over 900 medical cannabis dispensaries in seven states. This move marks a major milestone, as these dispensaries are now recognized as federally legal medical cannabis providers. The registrations are a result of the DEA's efforts to implement the federal government's medical cannabis program, and it's likely that more dispensaries will be granted registration in the future.

As the industry continues to grow and mature, states are also re-examining their cannabis policies and regulations. In Michigan, lawmakers are proposing a pause on the state's 24% cannabis wholesale tax, which could provide relief to businesses operating in the state. Meanwhile, Alabama's medical cannabis market is slowly rolling out, with more dispensaries opening their doors to patients. Additionally, cannabis employers are taking proactive steps to prioritize worker healthcare benefits, demonstrating a growing recognition of the importance of employee well-being in the industry. These developments reflect the ongoing evolution of the US cannabis industry, as it navigates complex regulatory landscapes and seeks to improve services for patients and employees alike.

Today's signal:
• DEA grants federal registration to 900 medical cannabis dispensaries in seven states (mjbizdaily.com)
• DEA grants federal registration to ‘more than’ 900 medical cannabis dispensaries in seven states (mjbizdaily.com)
• Marijuana rescheduling: DEA recognizes first federally legal medical cannabis dispensaries (mjbizdaily.com)
• Michigan lawmakers propose pause on 24% cannabis wholesale tax (mjbizdaily.com)
• Alabama medical cannabis market continues slow rollout with more openings (mjbizdaily.com)
• How cannabis employers are taking worker healthcare benefits into their own hands (mjbizdaily.com)